Prescription Drug Addiction Symptoms, Side Effects, Signs & Withdrawal

It is a growing problem that can have serious consequences for individuals and society as a whole. It is important to be aware of the signs of prescription drug abuse so that you can take action if you suspect someone you know may be struggling with this issue. This article will explore the various signs of prescription drug abuse and provide helpful information on what to look for. Our expert team has over 25 years of combined experience in substance abuse treatment and is dedicated to providing the highest level of care. We offer a luxury environment designed to create a safe and supportive atmosphere for recovery.

Which Prescription Drugs Are Commonly Abused?

• Easier access to misused prescription drugs and social pressures can significantly elevate the risk of misusing drugs, often leading to poor judgment and affecting their overall well being.
• The prescription drugs most often misused include opioid painkillers, anti-anxiety medicines, sedatives and stimulants.
• Abusing drugs — even prescription drugs — can change how your brain works.
• We want to give recovering addicts the tools to return to the outside world completely substance-free and successful.

At this stage, you may be wondering how you can find help for prescription drug abuse. If you would like prescription drug abuse to pursue outpatient support, you can attend a local Narcotics Anonymous support group, which is a fellowship that follows the 12-step programme. Alternatively, you can receive prescription drug addiction treatment at an inpatient UKAT rehab centre which incorporates detox, therapy and one year’s free aftercare.

Aftercare Programs

• Additionally, people who have experienced trauma may be more likely to turn to drugs as a coping mechanism.
• Matt is credentialed as CADC-CS (Certified Alcohol & Drug Counselor – Clinical Supervisor) through CCAPP (California Consortium of Addiction Programs and Professionals).
• It can influence attitudes and behaviors towards drug use, increase awareness about the risks, and provide evidence-based prevention programs.

These symptoms are uncomfortable and frightening at best, and at worst they can endanger your life. So, we have provided a short list of the five most important things to know about prescription medication abuse and its risk factors. If your loved one displays these signs, please reach out to an Ark Behavioral Health specialist. Our substance abuse and addiction treatment programs offer medical detox, behavioral therapy, and other forms alcoholism treatment of personalized, evidence-based care. Prescription drug abuse has become a significant public health concern in recent years.

• Unlike illicit drugs, prescription medications are legally available through healthcare providers, which can create a false sense of safety.
• If you or someone you know is struggling with prescription drug abuse, getting help early is important.
• In fact, some people use them for non-medical reasons to seek out the feelings and sensations they can cause when taken in high doses.
• Benzodiazepines include alprazolam (Xanax), lorazepam (Ativan) and diazepam (Valium).
• Angie has dedicated her life to freeing those suffering from drug and alcohol addiction.

Risks of Prescription Drug Abuse

It is crucial to pay attention to these psychological indicators to identify and address the issue effectively. Furthermore, individuals struggling with prescription drug https://systemfoundation.org/212-hilarious-sobriety-puns-to-celebrate-clear/ abuse may exhibit erratic behavior, mood swings, and impaired coordination. These additional symptoms can often be linked to the specific type of prescription drug being abused and the impact it has on the individual’s central nervous system.

Prescription drug abuse can disrupt a person’s cognitive functions, including memory, concentration, and the ability to solve problems. Additionally, people who have experienced trauma may be more likely to turn to drugs as a coping mechanism. Prescription drug abuse can have a profound impact on an individual’s overall well-being, not just internally but also externally. In addition to the changes in appearance and unusual sleep patterns, there may be other noticeable signs that could raise concerns.

Individuals who are abusing prescription drugs may distance themselves from friends and family, preferring to spend time alone. These mood swings can be challenging not only for the individual experiencing them but also for those around them. The unpredictability of emotions can strain relationships and make it difficult for loved ones to understand and support the person struggling with prescription drug abuse. Alongside physical signs, there are also behavioral signs that may indicate someone is struggling with prescription drug abuse. Prescription drug abuse occurs when individuals take medication in a manner or dose other than prescribed by a healthcare professional.

The Top 12 Signs Of Prescription Drug Abuse

Most users are not able to completely hide a severe addiction, but they are still likely to try to hide their abuse, so these minor signals may indicate that more investigation is needed. In some cases, people who use prescription medication to treat pain can become addicted unintentionally even if they follow the doctor’s recommendations. Sometimes many people are not aware they have a predisposition to prescription drug abuse and addiction. Many people are able to take these medications without developing an addiction to them, even though they are aware that these medications do lead to a higher chance of abuse or addiction.

Opiate addiction

Please encourage them to seek professional help and offer your support. Remember, confronting someone about drug abuse can be delicate, so it’s important to be non-judgmental and understanding. Over time, misuse of medications can cause physical dependence, meaning the body needs the drug to function normally, and psychological addiction, which involves cravings and compulsive use. Signs of prescription drug abuse may include mood swings, drowsiness or sedation, memory problems, changes in behavior, doctor shopping, and physical symptoms like slurred speech or poor coordination. Like mood swings, irritability is a common withdrawal symptom in people with prescription drug addiction.

Types of Substance Use Disorders

Always be sure to talk to your pharmacist and ask to hear the accessibility notice. These notices will give you important information on your legal rights to be able to access medication information as well as other details that deal directly with your health. Treatment typically involves a combination of medication and individual and/or group therapy, which can take place in the community or at an inpatient rehabilitation center. Lakeview Behavioral Health provides a full continuum of care for adults and adolescents who have been struggling with psychiatric health and addiction concerns.

The withdrawal period typically lasts one to two weeks, but it can be prolonged in cases of severe addiction. If you notice signs of prescription drug abuse or addiction, seek treatment right away. The sooner you begin treatment, the sooner you can start to work toward the future you choose. If you or someone you know is struggling with prescription drug abuse, Omnia Recovery is here to help. Our team of experienced professionals is dedicated to providing compassionate care and effective treatment to guide you on the path to recovery.